A Learning Community - Pre-K through 2nd Grade: The Core Curriculum Overview In prekindergarten through grade 2, students engage in developmentally appropriate challenges aimed at forming a solid foundation in reading, writing, mathematics, and thinking skills. Understanding the needs of young children, teachers provide time for snack break, recess, and other breaks outside. Prekindergarten and kindergarten schedules include rest times for children. Within a traditional teaching and learning context, teachers vary activities to engage students actively in learning. Students begin to take on responsibility for completing work and managing their materials and belongings. Field trips are fun enhancements of the curriculum. Prekindergarten The Prekindergarten program involves the whole child in the educational process. Developmentally appropriate opportunities for children to grow spiritually, academically, emotionally, socially, and physically are provided in a personal manner to assure that the strengths and needs of each student are addressed. Students begin the study of letters and numbers through a program called Letter People. A teacher and a teacher assistant staff each classroom. Kindergarten through Grade 2 Beginning with kindergarten and continuing through Grade 8 the curriculum is based on the standard course of study set forth by the Diocese of Raleigh. Religion In the primary grades, emphasis is placed on helping students develop a personal relationship with God through prayer, reflection, and action. Religious instruction includes Atrium, a Montessori approach, more traditional classroom based activities, and participation in liturgies. Language Arts Emphasis in language arts is on developing strong reading, writing, and speaking skills and nurturing a love for reading and writing. Students engage in phonics study, journal writing, choral reading, independent reading, structured writing, and handwriting exercises. Students move from invented spellings to conventional spellings. Mathematics Mathematics focuses on real-life problem solving, basic skills practice through a variety of methods, balanced instruction (whole group, small group, teacher-directed, and open-ended activities), and partnership between school and home. Opportunities for students to discuss strategies and solutions to clarify thinking are considered essential. Everyday Mathematics, the comprehensive curriculum developed by the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project, is the program followed. Social Studies Primary students begin with a focus on self and families including families around the world, followed by an exploration of neighborhoods and communities, and then regional studies. Students develop basic research skills and ideas about living in community. Science Students engage in hands-on science activities. They develop the process skills of science, distinguish between natural and man-made objects, and learn about personal health. Some topics of study include plant and animal life cycles, changes in weather, and changes in properties.

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